Building on the momentum started with the Chefs & Farmers Food Forum, L'ulu, the Leeward Culinary Arts Gala, pairs Hawaiʻi’s finest chefs with local farmers, ranchers and aquaculturists. The culinary event is presented on Saturday, May 7, from 6–9 p.m. in The Pearl and Campus Center on the Leeward campus.

The event celebrates the 20th anniversary of Hawai‘i Regional Cuisine, while pursuing a more sustainable, food-independent Hawaiʻi. Thirteen chefs will partner with farmers, ranchers and aquaculturists to feature a locally grown or produced food item in their menu offering. The event links agriculture with the restaurant industry to provide diners with products that are fresh, local and as diverse as our islands themselves.

This social event of the Leeward side brings together the leaders of Hawai‘i’s Regional Cuisine in support of Leeward Community College’s Culinary Arts Program. Guests indulge their senses with the delectable cuisines of Hawai‘i’s finest chefs alongside the Culinary Arts Program’s instructors and students. Exceptional entertainment and a silent auction, complimented by an array of wines, beers, spirits, and specialty coffees and teas complete the festive atmosphere and extraordinary ambiance of dining amid the Culinary Arts Program’s expanded dining and kitchen facilities.

L'ulu is an annual fundraiser for Leeward's Culinary Arts Program and provides scholarships and educational opportunities for Hawai‘i’s culinary students.

The restaurants and chefs featured include:

3660 on the Rise, Russell Siu

Alan Wong’s Restaurant, Alan Wong

Nalo Farms, Dean Okimoto

Ola, Fred DeAngelo

The Pacific Club, Eric Leterc

Padovani's Grill/Padovani's Chocolates, Philippe Padovani

Poke Stop, Elmer Guzman

Roy’s Restaurant, Roy Yamaguchi

Sansei and d.k Steak House, D.K. Kodama

Tango, Goran Streng

town, Ed Kenney

The Pearl, Leeward Community College, Ian Riseley

General admission grazing tickets are $100 through April 29, 2011 and $125 from May 2, 2011.